Ongoing insistence from the Government, that gang tensions in Opotiki are a police issue, not a political one

Schools and public facilities in the eastern Bay of Plenty town remain closed today due to safety concerns, ahead of today's tangi for gang boss Steven Taiatini.

Hundreds of gang members are already in the town, with more expected to arrive in a procession from Whakatane this morning.

Cabinet Minister Megan Woods says she feels sorry for everyone involved, but the Government has resourced Police to respond appropriately.

She says this isn't the time for politics, but for making sure everyone is safe.

About 100 extra police have been stationed to the area to monitor the increased gang presence, as investigations continue into Taiatini's death.